20 AWS Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Congratulations! You just landed an interview for a job as an AWS engineer. Now comes the hard part—preparing to answer questions about your experience with Amazon Web Services (AWS).

If you’ve already taken some time to review common engineering interview questions, then you know that there are certain types of questions you should expect in any technical interview. But it also helps to be prepared for some specific questions related to AWS. To get you started, here are five AWS engineer interview questions and example answers.

1. What experience do you have working with AWS services such as EC2, S3, and Lambda?

For any role that involves working with Amazon Web Services (AWS), it’s important to understand the different services available and how they interact. By asking this question, the interviewer is looking to get a sense of the scope of your experience with AWS and how you can use it to help the company’s needs.

How to Answer:

Start by highlighting your experience with the specific services mentioned in the question (EC2, S3, and Lambda). Discuss how you’ve used each service in past projects and what benefits they provided. If possible, provide examples of successful projects that used AWS services to demonstrate your knowledge. Finally, talk about any additional AWS services you have experience with. Showing a broad understanding of the different tools available will help show the interviewer that you can be an asset to their team.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with AWS services, including EC2, S3, and Lambda. I’ve used these services to create web applications that can scale quickly and reliably in response to traffic spikes. For example, when I was creating an e-commerce platform for a client, I utilized EC2 and S3 to provide the necessary compute power and storage capacity needed to handle their high demand. Additionally, I leveraged Lambda functions to automate processes such as order fulfillment and customer notifications. I also have experience using other AWS services such as API Gateway, CloudWatch, and DynamoDB.”

2. Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot an issue related to the deployment of an application on AWS.

AWS engineers are expected to be able to troubleshoot any issue that arises with an application running on the cloud platform. This question is designed to gauge your ability to identify and solve problems related to the deployment of applications on AWS. It gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving skills and how you approach complex tasks.

How to Answer:

To answer this question, you should provide a specific example of a time when you had to troubleshoot an issue related to the deployment of an application on AWS. Start by describing the problem and how it was impacting the application. Then explain the steps you took to identify and solve the problem. Finally, discuss the outcome of your troubleshooting efforts and any lessons learned.

Example: “I have extensive experience deploying applications on AWS and troubleshooting any issues that arise. For example, I recently deployed an application for a client using EC2 instances and S3 buckets. During the deployment process, I identified a potential security vulnerability in the system and worked quickly to implement the necessary protocols and systems to address it. In addition, I’m certified in AWS Security and regularly attend trainings and seminars to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in this field.”

3. How familiar are you with setting up security protocols for cloud-based applications?

Security is a critical component of any cloud-based application, and AWS engineers need to be well-versed in setting up the right protocols and systems to ensure the safety of the data stored in the cloud. By asking this question, the interviewer is looking for an understanding of the various security protocols and systems that need to be in place to provide the necessary protection.

How to Answer:

Be prepared to discuss your experience setting up security protocols for cloud-based applications. Talk about the specific protocols and systems you have implemented in the past, as well as any certifications or trainings you may have taken related to AWS security. Finally, explain how you stay up-to-date on new developments in AWS security so that you can ensure the safety of the data stored in the cloud.

Example: “I have extensive experience setting up security protocols for cloud-based applications. I’ve implemented a variety of different protocols, such as two-factor authentication and data encryption, to ensure the safety of the data stored in the cloud. Additionally, I’m AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate and Security Specialty certified, so I’m well-versed in the current best practices for protecting cloud-based applications. Finally, I stay up-to-date on new developments in AWS security by attending webinars and reading industry publications.”

4. Explain your understanding of serverless architectures and how they can be used in AWS.

Serverless architectures are a relatively new technology, but one that is rapidly becoming more popular. This question allows the interviewer to gauge your knowledge of serverless architectures and how they can be used in the AWS cloud environment. They’re looking to see if you understand the fundamentals of serverless architectures and how they can be used to reduce costs and improve scalability.

How to Answer:

Start by explaining what serverless architectures are and how they differ from traditional server-based architectures. Explain the benefits of using serverless architectures, such as cost savings, scalability, and speed. Then explain how AWS services like Lambda, API Gateway, and DynamoDB can be used to create a serverless architecture in the cloud. Finally, provide an example of how you’ve used serverless architectures in your current or previous roles.

Example: “Serverless architectures are a type of cloud computing that allows developers to build and run applications without having to manage servers. Instead, the application runs in response to events or triggers, such as an HTTP request or data being updated in a database. This makes it easier to scale up or down depending on usage patterns and reduces costs by only charging for the time the code is running. In AWS, serverless architectures can be built using services like Lambda, API Gateway, and DynamoDB. For example, I recently worked on a project where we used these services to create a web application that allowed users to upload images to S3, which were then processed using Lambda functions and stored securely in DynamoDB.”

5. Are you comfortable using scripting languages such as Python or Bash to automate tasks in AWS?

Automation is one of the key components of working with the Amazon Web Services platform. The interviewer wants to know that you are familiar with scripting languages and have the technical knowledge to automate tasks. This question is also a great opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of AWS and the scripting languages you have experience with.

How to Answer:

Explain how you have used scripting languages such as Python or Bash to automate tasks in AWS. Talk about the specific tasks you automated and the challenges you faced when doing so. If you don’t have direct experience with automation, talk about your familiarity with scripting languages and explain how you would go about learning the necessary skills to automate tasks in AWS. Showing that you are open to learning new skills is a great way to demonstrate your willingness to take on new challenges.

Example: “Yes, I am very comfortable with scripting languages such as Python and Bash for automation tasks in AWS. I have used both to automate various tasks such as setting up EC2 instances and deploying applications. I also understand the importance of writing clean and efficient code to ensure that the automated processes run smoothly and efficiently. If needed, I can quickly learn any additional scripting language or tools necessary to automate tasks in AWS.”

6. What strategies do you use to ensure that all resources are properly monitored and managed in AWS?

In order to successfully manage AWS resources, an engineer must be able to create an effective monitoring and management strategy. This strategy must take into account the cost of resources and their usage, as well as security concerns and other risks associated with cloud computing. By asking this question, the interviewer wants to understand how you plan to ensure the resources are managed correctly and efficiently.

How to Answer:

You can start by discussing the importance of monitoring and management in AWS. Explain how you would use AWS services such as CloudWatch, Config, and IAM to monitor and manage resources. Additionally, you should talk about best practices for resource optimization, such as using tagging and automated scaling. Finally, discuss any strategies you have used in the past to ensure that all resources are properly monitored and managed in AWS.

Example: “I believe that monitoring and management of AWS resources is essential for a successful cloud environment. I use services such as CloudWatch, Config, and IAM to monitor the utilization and performance of all my resources in order to ensure they are being used efficiently. I also employ best practices such as tagging and automated scaling to optimize resource usage. In addition, I have implemented additional measures such as setting up alerts to alert me when certain thresholds are exceeded so that I can take action if necessary.”

7. Have you ever worked with containerization technologies such as Docker or Kubernetes?

Containerization is a key technology for cloud computing, and AWS engineers need to be able to work with it. Knowing the basics of how containers work, how to deploy them, and how to manage them is essential for any engineer who wants to work with AWS.

How to Answer:

Be honest about your experience with containerization technologies. If you have worked with them, highlight the projects you’ve completed and any successes you had. If you haven’t, explain what you know about them and why you are interested in learning more. Show that you understand the basics of containers, such as how they can be used to deploy applications quickly and consistently across multiple environments. Also, demonstrate an understanding of the challenges associated with managing large numbers of containers and discuss strategies for overcoming them.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with Docker and Kubernetes. I’ve worked on projects that involved deploying, managing, and scaling containerized applications in production environments. I understand the benefits of using containers, such as their ability to quickly deploy applications across multiple platforms. I also know how to troubleshoot issues related to container orchestration, such as resource utilization and network latency. In addition, I’m familiar with strategies for optimizing container performance and minimizing cost.”

8. What is your experience with developing and deploying microservices on AWS?

Microservices are becoming increasingly popular for teams that need to build cloud applications quickly and effectively. The interviewer will want to know your experience in developing and deploying microservices on AWS, as well as your understanding of the different components of the AWS platform and how they work together. They’ll also want to know if you have any experience with AWS tools such as Lambda and EC2, as well as your ability to debug and troubleshoot issues related to microservices.

How to Answer:

Be prepared to talk about your experience in developing and deploying microservices on AWS, including any tools you have used. Talk about the challenges you faced while working with microservices and how you overcame them. Showcase your knowledge of the different components of the AWS platform and how they work together. Also, mention any debugging or troubleshooting techniques you have used when dealing with issues related to microservices.

Example: “I have extensive experience developing and deploying microservices on AWS. I have used tools such as Lambda, EC2, and S3 to create and deploy microservices. I have also used services such as CloudFormation and Elastic Beanstalk to manage and deploy microservices. I am familiar with debugging and troubleshooting issues related to microservices, and I am comfortable working with the various components of the AWS platform. I am confident that I can help your team build and deploy microservices quickly and effectively.”

9. How do you handle data migration from one environment to another in AWS?

Data migration is a critical part of any AWS engineer’s job. It’s important that you understand the different ways to move data between environments, as well as the potential risks and challenges. Your answer will also demonstrate your knowledge of AWS services, such as S3 and EC2, and their use in data migration.

How to Answer:

Start by giving an overview of the process you use to migrate data. Explain how you determine which services are needed, what steps you take to ensure a successful migration, and any potential risks or challenges associated with it. You should also explain your experience in using AWS services for data migration, such as S3 buckets, EC2 instances, or other tools. Finally, mention any best practices that you follow during data migrations to ensure accuracy and minimize downtime.

Example: “When I’m tasked with data migration, I typically use S3 buckets and EC2 instances. I always make sure to test the connection between the two environments and double check that the data is secure before I begin the migration process. I also use the AWS Data Pipeline service to help manage the migration process, which helps ensure accuracy and minimize downtime. Finally, I monitor the process closely to make sure it runs smoothly and that all the data is transferred successfully. I also follow best practices such as data encryption, version control, and regular backups to ensure the process is secure and successful.”

10. What strategies do you use to optimize costs associated with running applications on AWS?

Companies are always looking to save money, and as an AWS engineer, you’ll be expected to know how to optimize costs by using the right tools and strategies. This question allows the interviewer to assess your knowledge of AWS and how you can use it to help the company save money.

How to Answer:

The best way to answer this question is to explain the strategies you have used in the past. Talk about how you have used Reserved Instances, Spot Instances, and Auto Scaling to optimize costs associated with running applications on AWS. You can also discuss how you have leveraged CloudWatch alarms to monitor your resources and ensure they’re being used efficiently. Finally, mention any cost optimization tools or services you have used, such as AWS Trusted Advisor or Cost Explorer.

Example: “I have extensive experience optimizing costs associated with running applications on AWS. I’ve used Reserved Instances, Spot Instances, and Auto Scaling to ensure that I am utilizing the most cost-effective resources for my applications. I’ve also set up CloudWatch alarms to monitor my resources and ensure they are being used efficiently. In addition, I’ve used AWS Trusted Advisor and Cost Explorer to identify opportunities for further cost optimization. By leveraging these strategies, I have been able to reduce the cost of running applications on AWS by up to 25%.”

11. Do you have any experience with DevOps tools such as Jenkins or Chef?

AWS engineers are expected to be familiar with the DevOps process and the tools used to support it. They need to be able to quickly deploy and manage software applications in the cloud with minimal manual intervention. By asking this question, the interviewer can gauge your experience with the DevOps process and the tools used to support it, as well as your ability to work with other members of the DevOps team.

How to Answer:

If you have experience with DevOps tools such as Jenkins or Chef, you should be able to answer this question in detail. Talk about the projects you’ve worked on and how you used these tools to deploy and manage applications in the cloud. If you don’t have any direct experience with DevOps tools, talk about your willingness to learn new technologies and how quickly you pick up new concepts. Explain that you understand the importance of automation in the cloud environment and that you are eager to get started.

Example: “I have experience using DevOps tools such as Jenkins and Chef. I have used them to deploy and manage applications in the cloud for a variety of projects. I understand the importance of automation in the cloud environment and am comfortable working with other members of the DevOps team. I am also eager to learn new technologies and am confident in my ability to quickly pick up new concepts and tools.”

12. What steps do you take to ensure high availability and scalability of applications deployed on AWS?

AWS is a powerful cloud computing platform, but it requires an experienced engineer to use it to its fullest potential. This question will show the interviewer that you have the technical knowledge and experience to develop and manage applications on AWS. You should be able to demonstrate an understanding of strategies such as auto-scaling, load balancing, and multi-availability zones, as well as the ability to monitor and troubleshoot any issues that arise.

How to Answer:

Start by outlining the strategies you use to ensure high availability and scalability of applications on AWS. Explain how you configure auto-scaling, load balancing, and multi-availability zones for optimal performance and reliability. You should also mention any monitoring tools or services that you use to monitor the application and diagnose any issues quickly. Finally, explain your approach to troubleshooting and resolving any problems that arise.

Example: “When deploying applications on AWS, I take a number of steps to ensure high availability and scalability. I use auto-scaling and load balancing to ensure that applications are able to handle increased demand. I also configure multi-availability zones to ensure that applications are available in multiple regions. To monitor the application performance, I use CloudWatch and CloudTrail. This allows me to detect any issues early and take corrective action. I also use CloudFormation to quickly deploy and update applications. Finally, I use a combination of automated and manual troubleshooting techniques to quickly and effectively resolve any issues that arise.”

13. How do you approach debugging issues related to networking or storage in AWS?

While most people can understand the basics of networking and storage, it takes a great engineer to debug issues and solve problems related to them. This question allows the interviewer to get an understanding of how you approach problem-solving, and it requires a level of technical expertise that only an experienced AWS engineer would have.

How to Answer:

Start by explaining the steps you would take to diagnose and debug an issue related to networking or storage in AWS. This could include things like reviewing system logs, running diagnostics, checking for errors in configuration files, etc. You should also explain how you would use AWS tools to troubleshoot these issues, such as CloudWatch, VPC Flow Logs, and Trusted Advisor. Finally, be sure to mention that you understand the importance of security when dealing with network and storage issues, and that you always keep security best practices in mind when debugging.

Example: “When debugging issues related to networking or storage in AWS, I start by reviewing system logs, running diagnostics, and checking for errors in configuration files. I also use AWS tools such as CloudWatch, VPC Flow Logs, and Trusted Advisor to help troubleshoot and identify any potential issues. I understand the importance of security when dealing with network and storage issues, and I always keep security best practices in mind when debugging.”

14. What strategies do you use to secure access to AWS resources?

Security is a top priority in any IT job—especially in cloud engineering. It’s important for employers to know that you understand the importance of keeping their data safe and secure. They’ll want to hear about the strategies and processes you use to protect resources in the cloud, such as access control policies, data encryption, and identity and access management (IAM).

How to Answer:

Start by outlining your experience with AWS security tools and services, such as IAM roles, policies, and CloudTrail. Talk about the strategies you’ve used to secure access, such as setting up multi-factor authentication (MFA) for users, using strong passwords, and establishing a least privilege policy. You can also discuss how you use encryption to protect data in transit and at rest, as well as any other processes or technologies you’ve implemented to ensure data security.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with AWS security tools and services. I’m well-versed in setting up IAM roles and policies, as well as using MFA for user access. I also understand the importance of strong passwords and have implemented a least privilege policy to ensure that only the necessary users have access to the necessary resources. I also use CloudTrail to track user activity and ensure that any suspicious activity can be identified and addressed quickly. Additionally, I’m familiar with various encryption technologies and have implemented protocols to ensure that data is securely transmitted and stored.”

15. Are you familiar with Amazon’s best practices for architecting solutions on AWS?

Amazon has a set of best practices for how to architect solutions on its cloud platform, AWS. This is an important question as it demonstrates a candidate’s understanding of the platform and their ability to develop solutions that are cost effective and adhere to AWS’s best practices. Knowing the platform’s best practices also allows engineers to troubleshoot and debug issues quickly should they arise.

How to Answer:

Start by talking about your experience with AWS and the projects you’ve worked on. Then, explain that you are familiar with Amazon’s best practices for architecting solutions on AWS. You can then share examples of how you have implemented these best practices in past projects. Additionally, you can talk about any certifications or courses you’ve taken related to AWS architecture and best practices.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with AWS and have used it to build and deploy several applications. I am also well-versed in Amazon’s best practices for architecting solutions on AWS. For example, I have used Amazon EC2 Auto Scaling to dynamically scale my applications based on demand. I also follow Amazon’s security best practices, such as using AWS Identity and Access Management to control access to my resources. I have also taken several courses and earned certifications related to AWS architecture and best practices.”

16. What experience do you have with creating automated backups and disaster recovery plans for applications hosted on AWS?

AWS Engineers are responsible for setting up and managing applications hosted on the Amazon Web Services platform. This includes ensuring that applications are backed up and have disaster recovery plans in place in the event of an outage or other issue. The interviewer will want to know that you have the technical know-how and experience to set up and maintain these systems.

How to Answer:

In your answer, be sure to highlight any experience you have with creating automated backups and disaster recovery plans for applications hosted on AWS. Talk about the tools and processes you’ve used in the past, such as Amazon S3, CloudFormation templates, or other methods. You can also discuss any challenges you faced while setting up these systems and how you overcame them. Be prepared to go into detail if asked, including specifics of the system setup, configuration, testing, and maintenance.

Example: “I have extensive experience setting up automated backups and disaster recovery plans for applications hosted on AWS. I have used Amazon S3 for backups and CloudFormation templates for configuring disaster recovery plans. I have also tested and maintained these systems to ensure that they are working properly. I have faced challenges such as dealing with large amounts of data and ensuring that backups are stored securely. To overcome these challenges, I have implemented best practices such as using encryption and regular testing of the backups. I am confident that my experience and knowledge of AWS will be an asset to your team.”

17. How do you handle performance tuning and optimization of applications running on AWS?

Performance tuning is a key skill for any AWS engineer. As an AWS engineer, you should be able to identify areas of improvement and make changes to ensure optimal performance. This question is designed to assess your technical knowledge and ability to troubleshoot and optimize applications running on AWS.

How to Answer:

The best way to answer this question is to provide a clear and detailed explanation of your approach. Talk about the process you use to identify areas of improvement, such as analyzing system logs, monitoring performance metrics, and using tools like CloudWatch or New Relic. Explain how you make changes to improve performance, such as utilizing caching techniques, optimizing database queries, and scaling resources. Be sure to mention any AWS services you’ve used for optimization, such as Elastic Load Balancing or Auto Scaling.

Example: “I approach performance tuning and optimization for applications running on AWS in a few different ways. I look at system logs and performance metrics to identify areas of improvement, such as optimizing database queries or utilizing caching techniques. I also use tools like CloudWatch and New Relic to monitor performance and identify any potential bottlenecks. To improve performance, I take advantage of AWS services like Elastic Load Balancing and Auto Scaling to ensure resources are properly scaled. I also implement best practices, such as setting up alerts and using automation tools, to ensure that applications are running optimally.”

18. What experience do you have with integrating third-party services into applications hosted on AWS?

AWS Engineers are responsible for building, deploying, and maintaining applications on Amazon Web Services. This means they need to be familiar with the various services AWS offers, as well as any third-party services that could be integrated into the applications they are hosting. This question is designed to assess the candidate’s knowledge of how to integrate services and create seamless applications on AWS.

How to Answer:

To answer this question, you should talk about your experience with integrating third-party services into applications hosted on AWS. Talk about the specific tools and services you have used in the past to integrate third-party services, such as API calls or SDKs. You should also discuss any challenges you faced while doing so, such as authentication issues or compatibility problems. Be sure to emphasize how your knowledge of AWS has helped you to successfully integrate these services.

Example: “I have extensive experience integrating third-party services into applications hosted on AWS. I have used API calls and SDKs to integrate services such as payment processing, authentication, and analytics. I have also used AWS services such as Lambda and API Gateway to manage the integration process. I have faced and solved many challenges while integrating third-party services, such as authentication issues, compatibility problems, and performance issues. My knowledge of AWS and its services has helped me to successfully integrate these services and create seamless applications on AWS.”

19. Are you familiar with the different pricing models offered by AWS?

Understanding the various pricing models offered by AWS is essential for an AWS engineer. Depending on the size and scale of the project, it is important to be able to determine which pricing model makes the most sense for the customer. Additionally, it is important to be able to explain the different pricing models to customers and other stakeholders.

How to Answer:

Yes, I am familiar with the different pricing models offered by AWS. These include on-demand instances, reserved instances, spot instances and dedicated hosts. On-demand instances are great for short-term projects as you only pay for what you use. Reserved instances provide cost savings over on-demand instances when used for long-term projects. Spot instances allow customers to bid on unused EC2 capacity at a discounted rate. Finally, dedicated hosts offer full control of physical servers and can be used for regulatory compliance or other specific needs.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with the different pricing models offered by AWS. I have worked with customers to determine which pricing model makes the most sense for their project, and I have been able to explain the different models to other stakeholders. I have also been able to work with customers to optimize their AWS costs by utilizing the various pricing models available. Additionally, I have been able to help customers save money by migrating to different pricing models when their needs and usage patterns change. Overall, I am confident in my ability to help customers get the most out of their AWS investment.”

20. What strategies do you use to stay informed about new features and services released by AWS?

AWS (Amazon Web Services) is constantly changing and evolving. To keep up with the pace of innovation, it’s important for AWS engineers to stay on top of new features and services that can improve their work and help them do their job better. By asking this question, the interviewer is trying to gauge your level of commitment to staying up-to-date and how well you can adapt to new tools and technologies.

How to Answer:

You should be prepared to discuss the strategies you use to stay informed about new features and services released by AWS. Some strategies include reading blogs, attending conferences, joining user groups, or subscribing to newsletters. You can also mention any specific tools or resources that you find helpful in staying up-to-date on AWS offerings. It’s important to emphasize your commitment to continuously learning and adapting to changes in the industry.

Example: “I always make sure to keep myself informed about the latest features and services from AWS. I read blogs from AWS experts on a regular basis and attend webinars and conferences whenever I can. I also keep an eye on the AWS user groups and subscribe to the AWS newsletter for updates. I also make sure to stay up-to-date on the newest releases by testing out the features in my own environment. I think it’s important to stay on top of the latest developments in the industry, so I can make sure I’m using the most effective tools and strategies for my work.”